Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd.) has shed light on the motivation for creating Nigeria’s 12-state structure during his tenure.
Gowon, who served as Nigeria’s leader from 1966 to 1975, stated that the decision was driven by a need to alleviate regional tensions and address fears of domination by the northern region.
Speaking at a courtesy visit by the League of Northern Democrats, led by Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, at the Yakubu Gowon Centre in Abuja, he emphasized the importance of fostering national unity through balanced regional power distribution.
“My position has always been that whatever the north does must serve the greater interest of Nigeria,” Gowon said. “The creation of multiple states was to ensure that no one region could become too powerful, thereby threatening the unity of the country.”
He also urged northern elites to prioritize issues that promote the collective interests of Nigeria over regional biases, referencing the leadership ideals of former Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.
Gowon added:
“I hope your visit is not about returning to old patterns of regional prioritization. Let us focus on a united Nigeria where every part contributes to national progress.”
The creation of the 12-state structure in 1967 remains a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s history, aimed at maintaining balance and preventing regional hegemony during a turbulent period in the nation’s development.
